Proactive Traffic Enforcement by Motor Officers Leads to Significant Arrests Beyond Civil Violations

 

The Mesa Police Department continues to demonstrate how proactive traffic enforcement plays a critical role in identifying and preventing serious criminal activity within our community. In several recent incidents, what began as routine traffic stops to improve roadway safety resulted in the arrest of individuals involved in dangerous and illegal behavior, including drug trafficking, impaired driving, and unlawful flight from law enforcement.

 

On February 4, 2026, an officer conducting speed enforcement near the 7200 block of E. University Drive initiated a traffic stop that led to a DUI investigation. The driver was arrested for impairment. During the investigation, officers located approximately 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine and over $1,500 in cash, resulting in multiple felony drug-related charges.

On March 3, 2026, an officer stopped a vehicle for a red-light violation near Loop 202 and Alma School Road. A DUI investigation led to the arrest of the driver. Officers observed indicators of additional criminal activity and requested a K-9 unit, which alerted to the presence of illegal drugs. A subsequent search revealed approximately 6 pounds of methamphetamine concealed in a locked case. The passenger who had multiple outstanding warrants was also taken into custody.

 

 

 

On March 12, 2026, a motor officer conducting traffic enforcement near Extension Road and Baseline Road observed a vehicle traveling at an excessive speed of 90 mph in a 35 mph zone. The driver failed to stop and fled, eventually crashing into multiple vehicles in a commercial parking lot near Southern Avenue. Fortunately, no community members were injured. A pursuit was initiated and ultimately concluded with assistance from the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Officers later located narcotics, cash, and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle.

 

 

On March 21, 2026, a motor officer identified a driver near Stapley Drive and Southern Avenue who was known to have a revoked license from a prior incident involving unlawful flight from law enforcement. When the officer attempted a traffic stop, the driver fled again. Through follow-up investigation, officers recovered cash, fentanyl powder, and Xanax pills. Charges are being pursued against multiple people involved for drug-related offenses and unlawful flight.

 

 

 

On April 2, 2026, an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operating without headlights. A DUI investigation led to the arrest of the driver. During an inventory search, officers discovered a firearm, large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, counterfeit pills, drug paraphernalia, and cash. The driver, a prohibited possessor, now faces numerous felony charges related to narcotics and weapons violations.

 

 

 

These incidents underscore the importance of proactive policing and the vigilance of Mesa Police officers. What may begin as a routine traffic stop can quickly uncover serious criminal activity, helping to remove dangerous drugs, illegal weapons, and impaired drivers from our streets.

 

The Mesa Police Department remains committed to the safety of our community through proactive enforcement, thorough investigations, and a continued dedication to protecting those we serve.

 

Mesa Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying Unknown Victims in Voyeurism Case

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at approximately 10:20 p.m., Mesa Police officers responded to a suspicious person call in the 3000 block of South Massey. The reporting party stated they believed someone had been recording their juvenile family member in a bathroom from outside the home while she was preparing to shower. The caller also reported seeing a man, later identified as 42-year-old Erik Contos, in the fenced backyard of the residence.

On February 16, 2026, detectives served a search warrant and seized Contos’ cell phone. A forensic review of the device revealed multiple images of three individuals connected to the reporting party. Investigators determined that several of the images were taken from outside the residence, through a bathroom window. Some of the images depicted the individuals clothed, while others showed partial nudity. All of the images appear to have been captured from outside the home without the victims’ knowledge.

Based on this evidence, detectives determined Contos would have had to enter the fenced backyard to obtain the images. He was arrested and booked on charges including burglary, eight counts of surreptitious photographing, and nine counts of voyeurism. He was later released on a $75,000 cash bond.

As the investigation continued, detectives identified additional images possessed by Contos. One image depicted two juvenile females inside a bathroom and appeared to have been taken from outside the residence through a window. One of the juveniles was identified as a previously known victim, and the second was also later identified. Investigators also located two additional images believed to depict other victims, however, those individuals have not yet been identified.

On Friday, March 6th, 2026, Contos was rearrested on additional charges, including sexual exploitation of a minor and an additional count of surreptitious photographing.

The Mesa Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the two victims seen in photographs. Redacted images are included in this post in the hope that someone may recognize the bathrooms or provide information that could help identify the victims. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Mesa Police Department at (480)644-2211 or email Detective Christopher at p17194@mesaaz.gov 

Anyone who wishes to remain anonymous can call Silent Witness at (480) WITNESS.

 

Major Drug Trafficking Operation Dismantled by Mesa Detectives

A months-long investigation by Mesa Police has led to the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of massive quantities of illegal drugs that were being distributed throughout the region.

In November 2025, detectives from the Mesa Police Department began investigating information that narcotics were being sold from a residence in Mesa. Surveillance quickly revealed activity consistent with organized drug distribution, including repeated package deliveries and short stay visits, typical of trafficking operations.

As detectives dug deeper, they identified a supply chain that extended beyond a single home. Investigators linked the deliveries to a suspected courier and, ultimately, to a larger trafficking network operating from residences from multiple cities.

Over several weeks, detectives coordinated with regional partners, tracked movements between multiple properties, and gathered evidence tying the suspects to repeated narcotics deliveries across the East Valley.

On February 11, 2026, SWAT teams served court-authorized search warrants at two apartments connected to the investigation.

The evidence recovered showed just how large the operation was.

Seized during the warrants:

• Approximately 22 pounds of methamphetamine
• More than 5 pounds of fentanyl pills
• Over 4 pounds of fentanyl powder
• Heroin and cocaine
• More than $10,000 in cash
• A handgun
• Packaging materials and equipment consistent with large-scale distribution

Detectives also recovered additional methamphetamine at a second location after detectives learned where it was hidden.

The estimated total value of the seized evidence was over $718,000 dollars.

The primary suspect was contacted and detained prior to the warrant being served.

A second suspect admitted to knowing drugs were stored inside of the home and that sales were taking place.

Both suspects were booked into jail on drug related charges.  

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Statement from Chief

This investigation reflects the relentless work our officers and detectives put in every day to keep dangerous drugs out of Mesa. I’m proud of the dedication of our detectives and the partnerships that helped bring this operation to a successful conclusion. Because of their efforts, our community is safer. – Chief Butler

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Why This Investigation Matters to Mesa

Operations like this are not small, street-level cases. They function as supply points that push narcotics into neighborhoods, apartment communities, and roadways throughout Mesa. Cases like these:

• Reduce availability of dangerous and narcotic drugs in our city and surrounding areas
• Protect families and neighborhoods
• Disrupt the criminal networks that drive theft, violence, and repeat victimization
• Save lives

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Did You Know?

Investigations like this are a reminder that proactive police work matters, and that the work being done every day by officers and detectives across the city directly improves safety and quality of life for the people of Mesa.

The success of this case reflects the persistence and professionalism of Mesa detectives who remained focused on the investigation long after the initial information was received. Their attention to detail, collaboration, and commitment to protecting Mesa neighborhoods resulted in the removal of a significant drug supply from the community.

Behind the Case: Dismantling a Stolen Vehicle Crime Series in Mesa

Stolen vehicle cases are often viewed as isolated incidents. Many are part of broader, organized operations that cause significant financial loss, victimization across jurisdictions, and long-term community harm.

In 2025, Mesa Police detectives identified and dismantled a sophisticated stolen vehicle crime series that extended well beyond a single theft. Through months of detailed investigative work, four individuals were charged in connection with a coordinated operation responsible for multiple felony offenses across Mesa and neighboring jurisdictions.

The investigation revealed that between May and August 2025, the primary suspect was connected to the theft of seven vehicles valued at more than $267,000, along with the possession and use of stolen credit cards. What initially appeared to be opportunistic vehicle theft quickly evolved into a far more complex case involving organized planning, financial exploitation, and the recruitment of juveniles into criminal activity.

Detectives uncovered evidence showing the operation relied on advanced methods to steal vehicles and evade detection. This included the use of reprogrammed key fobs, specialized ignition-bypass tools, and sophisticated digital tactics such as private VPNs, aliases, and use of online marketplaces. Investigators also determined that the suspect used online platforms to communicate with buyers who provided specific price lists based on vehicle make, model, and year.

Search warrants executed during the investigation uncovered extensive evidence, including numerous electronic key fobs, vehicle reprogramming devices, stolen identification and credit cards, as well as firearms. Digital evidence further demonstrated deliberate efforts to monitor law enforcement activity and avoid apprehension.

A particularly concerning aspect of the case involved the grooming and recruitment of at-risk juveniles, who were directed to participate in vehicle thefts and related crimes. As a result of the investigation, multiple juveniles were referred to the appropriate authorities, and coordination with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office ensured both adult and juvenile accountability.

The investigation culminated in the arrest of the primary adult suspect, who was taken into custody following court proceedings. Prosecutors requested a $250,000 bond, reflecting the scope and seriousness of the offenses. The case includes multiple felony counts from both Mesa and Gilbert cases.

This case highlights the persistence and coordination required to dismantle organized property crime. It also reflects the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unseen — where detectives methodically connect financial records, digital evidence, victim reports, and interagency intelligence to stop ongoing criminal activity and prevent future harm.

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Why Stolen Vehicle Crime Matters

Organized vehicle theft is not just a property crime. These cases often involve:

·         Financial exploitation through stolen credit cards and identities

·         Vehicles being resold or trafficked across jurisdictions

·         Increased insurance costs and financial hardship for victims

·         The involvement and exploitation of juveniles in criminal activity

·         Links to additional crimes, including fraud, weapons offenses, and drug activity

Successfully dismantling organized theft operations protects victims, disrupts criminal networks, and prevents further exploitation.

Behind the Case: How a Mesa Investigation Helped Stop a Valley-Wide Copper Theft Operation

Copper theft is often dismissed as a property crime, but its real-world consequences are significant. These crimes damage critical infrastructure, disrupt transportation systems, and create serious safety hazards — all while costing taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars.

In late 2024, Mesa Police officers responded to an in-progress commercial burglary near the Loop 202 after a City of Mesa employee, monitoring live CCTV footage, observed suspects actively stealing copper wire from electrical junction boxes. What began as a single call for service quickly developed into a complex, multi-jurisdictional investigation.

Officers arriving on scene detained two suspects while a third fled into adjacent freeway property. A pickup truck linked to the suspects was located nearby, along with large quantities of cut and stripped copper wire, towing straps, tools, and evidence indicating the wire had been forcibly pulled from electrical infrastructure. Surveillance footage confirmed the method used — attaching tow straps to copper wiring and using a vehicle to rip it from junction boxes.

As the investigation continued, detectives uncovered a broader pattern of organized copper theft activity occurring across the Valley. Through search warrants, digital forensic analysis, and surveillance review, investigators were able to connect the suspects to additional thefts impacting multiple jurisdictions and agencies, including freeway infrastructure.

The investigation required extensive coordination between patrol officers, detectives, digital forensics investigators, utility partners, and outside agencies. Evidence collected over several weeks helped establish planning, movement patterns, and the scope of damage caused by the suspects’ actions.

Ultimately, the case was brought to a successful resolution in Maricopa County Superior Court. One of the primary suspects was convicted and sentenced to 2.5 years in the Arizona Department of Corrections.

In addition to prison time, the court ordered restitution to the agencies impacted by the thefts:

·         Avondale: $14,043

·         Arizona Department of Transportation: $190,000

·         Peoria: $33,734.25

In total, more than $237,000 in restitution was ordered — holding the offender accountable for the widespread damage caused to public infrastructure.

Cases like this highlight the importance of proactive policing, strong partnerships, and long-term investigative follow-through. Copper theft investigations are often complex and resource-intensive, but their impact reaches far beyond property loss. Successfully dismantling this operation helped protect critical systems, reduce future risk, and reinforce accountability across the region.

This case also serves as a reminder that behind-the-scenes investigative work — much of which the public never sees — plays a vital role in keeping communities safe and protecting taxpayer resources.

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Why Copper Theft Is a Serious Crime

Copper theft is not a victimless offense. When copper is stolen from electrical boxes, utility lines, or transportation infrastructure, the consequences can include:

·         Traffic signal outages and freeway disruptions that increase crash risk

·         Power interruptions impacting homes, businesses, and emergency systems

·         Significant repair costs borne by taxpayers and public agencies

·         Safety hazards for motorists, pedestrians, and utility workers

·         Delayed emergency response times when infrastructure is compromised

These crimes often require extensive repairs and coordinated response from multiple agencies. Holding offenders accountable helps protect critical systems that communities rely on every day.

Fitch Park Dog Incident

What Happened During the Fitch Park Incident on November 29, 2025

Just before 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, Mesa Police officers were patrolling Fitch Park at 651 N. Center Street. The park was closed at the time—Mesa parks are closed from 10 p.m. until sunrise—and officers found 37-year-old Jarell White sleeping on a table, which is a violation of Mesa City Code 6-10-3(A).

As officers walked up to speak with Jarell, an unleashed pit bull–mix began growling from the tabletop. One officer stopped and backed up to create distance, but within seconds the dog jumped down from the table and charged toward them—barking, growling, and snapping.

One officer continued backing away, while the second officer fired three shots to prevent an imminent bite. According to current department policy, officers are authorized to use force to stop an immediate threat, including from an aggressive animal. After the shots were fired, the dog ran off.

Officers Attempted to Help the Injured Dog

Additional officers were called in to help, as the scene had not yet been deemed safe. Once more units arrived, officers tried to help the injured dog. However, the dog continued to act aggressively, growling at officers who attempted to approach. Using a snare, officers were eventually able to walk the dog to a patrol car and transport it to a nearby animal hospital. The transport happened within six minutes of the encounter.

Body-worn camera footage captured officers telling Jarell, while on scene, “Your dog is going to the vet at Country Club and McClellan,” making it clear that he was informed of the dog’s location.

At the animal hospital, multiple officers told veterinary staff that the dog had an owner. Medical staff evaluated the dog and determined that the injuries were too severe for surgery. Based on veterinary standards, they made the decision to euthanize the dog. Officers were not present in the operating room when those medical decisions were made.

Later that evening, just before 8:00 p.m., a Central Station Watch Commander also notified a woman named Bertha—believed to be Jarell’s mother—of the dog’s location. This means two different people were informed on two separate occasions, which is also supported by body-worn camera footage.

Review of the Incident

As with all use-of-force incidents, the department is conducting a full review to ensure all actions align with department policy and Arizona law. Initial findings indicate the officer’s response was consistent with policy when confronted with an aggressive, charging dog.

Mesa Police officers receive training on dealing with aggressive animals, de-escalation techniques, and humane handling. This incident has also been forwarded to the Critical Incident Review Board for a more comprehensive evaluation.

Summary

This incident is undoubtedly distressing for everyone involved, and we recognize the emotional impact that the loss of a pet can have on its owner and the community. While officers were required to respond to an immediate threat to ensure public and officer safety, we understand that the outcome is painful and deeply unfortunate. The Mesa Police Department remains committed to transparency, compassionate service, and a thorough review of the incident to ensure that our policies, training, and actions continue to reflect the highest standards of care for both our residents and their animals.

As our commitment to transparency, below is the body worn camera footage of the incident. 

VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED

 

Mesa Police Arrest Teacher for Aggravated Assault on Student

Mesa, AZ – Mesa police officers arrested 52-year-old American Leadership Academy (ALA) teacher, Nathan Hansen for aggravated assault.

On November 6, 2025, shortly after 3:00 p.m., Mesa Police Officers were dispatched to American Leadership Academy on the 7000 block of Pecos Road in Mesa AZ, following a report that a teacher had physically assaulted a student.

Officers learned that the teacher, identified as 52-year-old Nathan Hansen, was involved in a physical altercation with a 14-year-old male student during a physical education class during school hours. According to initial reports, the incident occurred after the student approached Nathan and attempted to take a phone from his hand. Nathan then allegedly pushed the student to the ground and then dragged him by the back of his hoodie.

Detectives from the Mesa Police Special Victims Unit were notified and assisted with the investigation. Surveillance video reviewed by detectives showed Nathan shoving the student to the ground, grabbing him by the back of his hoodie, and dragging him off the basketball court before sliding him against the bleachers. The student suffered minor injuries as a result.

After reviewing the footage and conducting interviews, investigators determined there was probable cause to arrest Nathan for aggravated assault by an adult on a minor under 15 years of age. Nathan was contacted at his residence, interviewed, and subsequently arrested for aggravated assault.

Prohibited Possessor Arrested After Stolen Firearm Brought into Gun Shop

On the afternoon of September 25, 2025, Mesa Police made a significant arrest following a tip from local firearms store employees. The incident began when three individuals walked into Guns 2 Ammo, located at 6030 E. Main Street, requesting a repair. During the request, one of them produced a handgun, which staff ran through their internal verification system. The firearm — a Sig Sauer P365 — came back as stolen.

When officers arrived, they detained 36-year-old William Lawlor and his two companions. Video surveillance from the store showed Lawlor handing the firearm to staff. A closer inspection confirmed the serial number matched the stolen-gun report.

During subsequent interviews, Lawlor admitted he had agreed to bring the gun in for a battery replacement, stating it was given to him earlier that day by someone who goes by the street name “Jolly.” He refused, however, to offer up a real name or further details. Lawlor acknowledged that because of prior felony convictions, he was a prohibited possessor and understood that he was legally barred from having a firearm.

While being taken into custody, officers located drug paraphernalia that Lawlor admitted was for fentanyl use earlier in the day. Lawlor complained of chest pain and was evaluated by Mesa Fire/EMS before being cleared and transported to jail.

Lawlor was arrested and booked on the following charges:

• Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Possessor (Class 4 Felony)
• Theft / Control of Stolen Property (Class 6 Felony)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor – cited and released)

The companions were interviewed and subsequently released without charges.

This case underscores how cooperation between law enforcement and local firearms retailers can help prevent stolen weapons from being used in the community. Guns 2 Ammo staff’s vigilance and timely decision to contact police played a pivotal role in the safe recovery of the stolen firearm.

Mesa Police Arrest Armed Prohibited Possessor After Dangerous Domestic Incident

On September 24, 2025, just before midnight, Mesa Police officers responded to a report of a family fight near Sirrine Avenue and Southern Avenue. The 911 caller reported that her stepfather, 45-year-old Jesse Almeida, was intoxicated, armed with a handgun, and had threatened her mother.

When officers arrived, they saw a white truck matching the description given by the caller. Officers attempted to contact Almeida outside the residence. Instead of complying, Almeida became aggressive, removed his shirt, shouted profanities, and advanced toward officers while ignoring repeated commands.

Due to reports that Almeida was armed, officers deployed less-lethal options, including a Taser and beanbag rounds, until they were able to safely take him into custody. A loaded handgun was recovered from Almeida’s back pocket at the time of his arrest.

Further investigation revealed that Almeida, a convicted felon and prohibited possessor, had also fired multiple rounds from both a handgun and a rifle during the incident. Several family members and witnesses confirmed hearing and seeing gunfire, both in the front yard of the residence and as Almeida drove away in his truck. Detectives recovered spent shell casings, ammunition, and multiple firearms from the home and vehicle.

Almeida later admitted to detectives that he fired rounds from a rifle into the ground near the residence and discharged additional rounds from his vehicle while driving away. He also admitted to being in possession of both the rifle and handgun, despite his felony convictions prohibiting him from having firearms.

Almeida was arrested and booked on multiple felony charges, including:

• Misconduct Involving Weapons – Prohibited Possessor (2 counts)
• Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm within City Limits (2 counts)
• Disorderly Conduct – Recklessly Discharging a Firearm

This was a dangerous situation for everyone involved—family members, neighbors, and responding officers. Thanks to quick teamwork, officers were able to take Almeida into custody without deadly force and remove multiple firearms from his possession.

Mesa Police remain committed to addressing gun violence, especially when prohibited possessors put families and the community at risk.

Residential Burglary Suspects Arrested, Stolen Firearm and Property Recovered

On August 17, 2025, Mesa Police officers responded to a report of a residential burglary at an apartment near Recker Road and Brown Road. The victim, who had been away from the residence for several weeks, returned to find his home ransacked and numerous items missing. Property stolen included several televisions, gaming consoles, personal belongings, and a Marlin .45-70 lever action rifle with accessories.

Mesa Crime Scene Specialists processed the scene and collected evidence, including fingerprints. Forensic analysis later identified a match belonging to 36-year-old Manal Martinez Aljoborri, who resided in the same complex. Investigators also identified her boyfriend, 45-year-old Joseph Chase, as a possible suspect. Both are convicted felons and prohibited from possessing firearms. Aljoborri also had active Mesa warrants at the time.

Working with Maricopa County Adult Probation, detectives arranged a meeting with Aljoborri on September 25, 2025. She was taken into custody without incident. A probation search of her residence led to the recovery of multiple items stolen from the victim’s home, including televisions, gaming consoles, personal memorabilia, and the stolen Marlin rifle. Chase was also located at the residence and detained.

During interviews, both suspects admitted to entering the victim’s residence and taking property. Chase confirmed his involvement in stealing the firearm, while Aljoborri acknowledged taking additional items, including sports memorabilia with the victim’s name. Both suspects admitted to knowing they were prohibited from possessing firearms due to their felony convictions.

Both Aljoborri and Chase were arrested and booked into the Mesa City Detention Facility. They face charges including:

• Burglary in the Second Degree (ARS 13-1507A)
• Theft/Control of Stolen Property (ARS 13-1802A1)
• Prohibited Possessor of a Firearm (ARS 13-3102A4)

The stolen property was returned to the victim.

This case is an example of the persistence and teamwork between patrol officers, detectives, forensic specialists, and probation officers. Their thorough follow-up not only held the suspects accountable but also ensured the victim’s property was returned — including the recovery of a stolen firearm that could have posed a serious risk to the community.